In 1977 the Board of Directors of the Federal Way Boys and Girls formed a committee to establish a local golf tournament as the official golfing event of the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County, Inc.
Due to the relationship of several Board people as members of the Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club, a proposal to hold the event at Twin Lakes was made and accepted by the County Club's trustees. Utilizing a private country club with full banquet and pro shop facilities gave the Tournament a wonderfully exclusive venue. It's fair to say that several of our participants play in the event for the opportunity and privilege to golf at prestigious Twin Lakes. After 21 years our relationship with Twin Lakes is mutually beneficial. Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club view this event as their community contribution. It is also the biggest event at the course each year.
The first few years of the Tournament saw the event grow from a small event hosted by local celebrities including; Lenny Wilkens and Don James.Various firms provided sponsorship, notably PepsiCola and Associated Grocers.
Two events took place that eventually shaped the Tournament into a major community event. First, Bruce King - popular Sports Director at KOMO Television, who has participated from the beginning- agreed to be the permanent Honorary Chair and Host. Bruce's profile, credibility and beloved nature has made him a natural "point man" for the event.
Second, Key Bank joined as anchor sponsor. Having a firm of such magnitude for a sponsor not only furthered credibility of the Tournament, but also provided Key Bank with an important vehicle for their marketing and client relationships. Key Bank's involvement has been helpful in soliciting associate sponsors and other participating businesses. Today, Key Bank completes their multi year partnership.
Today, Bruce King's Celebrity Golf Invitational ("Celebrity Golf") stands, as the region's oldest and most respected event of it's kind. And according to former Husky football Head coach Jim Lambright, "No other golfing event is better presented, better organized or more fun."
We also stand at the threshold of a new marketing partnership with a new anchor sponsor. After 21 years of excellence, the future of Celebrity Golf has never been brighter!